The 'Must-Do' Cycling Routes in Granada

Guájar Alto

Distance: 33km | Elevation Gain: 620m | Map GPS
I vividly remember the first time I rode up to the village Guájar Alto—it was one of those moments when you realise why you ride in the first place. The road is smooth, the gradient steady, and as you climb, the views of the valley below unfold like a masterpiece. Avocado and orange trees stretch out across the land. In the evening the sun bounces off the rugged peaks of the Sierra de los Guájares. This ride may be short, but it’s unforgettable.

La Venta

Distance: 46km | Elevation Gain: 1200m | Map GPS
After descending to the Río Guadalfeo, the climb to Venta de Cebada begins on a peaceful, south-facing road that gets plenty of morning sun. The first part of the climb passes through orange groves, mango trees, and avocado trees. As you near the top, the road becomes more exposed, offering stunning views of the Sierra Nevada and the Alboran Sea. This route is ideal for stretching your legs while soaking in the beautiful Andalusian countryside.

La vuelta dE Lanjarón

Distance: 49km | Elevation Gain: 1200m
Leaving Vélez de Benaudalla, you'll encounter undulating terrain as you make your way to the bohemian town of Órgiva. From there, the route climbs to the historic town of Lanjarón, with breathtaking vistas out to the Alboran Sea and Morocco beyond. We attack the windmills just outside Lanjarón before beginning our descent back to Vélez de Benaudalla, where we started. This loop offers a combination of smooth tarmac roads, shimmering reservoirs, craggy hills, and native scrubland—perfect for road cyclists looking for a peaceful yet challenging route.

GUÁjares Gravel

Distance: 58km | Elevation Gain: 1800m
For thrill-seekers, the Guájares Gravel route combines challenging gradients with rough, unpaved sections that demand technical skill and stamina. Venture off the beaten path into a world of rugged mountain trails, where steep inclines, rocky surfaces, and dramatic descents reveal the raw, unfiltered beauty of the Sierra Nevada, all within easy reach of Granada’s urban comforts.

Cáñar

Distance: 61km | Elevation Gain: 1650m
Cáñar is a dream for cyclists who love twisty, switchback climbs. From Velez the route skirts along the foothills of Lújar to the hippy town of Órgiva, where you leave the bohemian atmosphere behind and begin the main climb to Cáñar. After reaching the summit, we descend the same way before climbing again to the historic town of Lanjarón. Along the way, enjoy dramatic rock formations, ancient terraced fields, and the occasional glimpse of a hidden waterfall - a true cyclist’s paradise with echoes of Granada’s historical past.

The Lecrin Valley Loop

Distance: 75km | Elevation Gain: 1700m
Dubbed the Goldilocks of our loops, the Lecrin Valley route offers the perfect balance of challenge and enjoyment. Meandering through lush valley landscapes dotted with orchards, olive groves, and quaint white-washed villages, this ride provides both relaxed cruising and a moderate workout. The expansive valley views, framed by the distant silhouette of Granada’s mountains, add an extra layer of beauty to your journey.

lújar coastal Loop

Distance: 87km | Elevation Gain: 1750m
Experience the best of both worlds with the Lújar Coastal Loop. Begin with challenging climbs as you leave the inland valleys, then transition to wide, open roads along the sparkling Mediterranean coastline. Ride past rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and vibrant fishing villages on smooth pavement with gentle curves, all while enjoying refreshing sea breezes—a perfect day trip that pairs coastal relaxation with Granada’s cultural magnetism.

Haza Del Lino (Polopos)

Distance: 92km | Elevation Gain: 2200m
Renowned as a lengthy and arduous climb, Haza Del Lino (via Polopos) is a true test of endurance. This route ascends through rugged mountain roads, past ancient stone markers and rustic shelters. The ever-changing scenery—from deep forested slopes to open, windswept ridges—keeps the ride both challenging and visually stunning, echoing the resilient spirit found in Granada’s heritage.

TrevÉlez

Distance: 105km | Elevation Gain: 2600m
Not for the faint-hearted, the Trevélez loop leads you to Spain’s highest village. This route for advanced riders features steep, challenging climbs interspersed with exhilarating descents. Navigate narrow mountain roads, dramatic switchbacks, and high-altitude pastures while soaking in the crisp, fresh mountain air. It’s a bucket-list ride that promises both technical challenges and awe-inspiring landscapes.

The Goat’s path

Distance: 115km | Elevation Gain: 2500m
A favorite among seasoned cyclists, The Goat’s Path is an epic route a Granada Classic featuring long, sustained climbs and exhilarating descents. Navigate remote mountain trails where every twist offers breathtaking panoramic views of surrounding peaks and valleys. This route tests your endurance on well-maintained roads mixed with a few rough patches, perfectly showcasing the dramatic beauty of the Sierra Nevada and its connection to Granada’s storied landscapes.

Why Cycle Granada & the sierra nevada?

I’ve ridden all over Europe, but nothing compares to the Sierra Nevada and Granada. Cycling in this region isn’t just about the ride—it’s about the experience. Here’s why our guests keep returning:

Diverse Terrain

From smooth coastal rides along the Mediterranean to rugged, challenging mountain climbs, our routes cater to every type of that likes to climb. Enjoy scenic views, varied gradients, and a mix of well-paved and technical paths that challenge and inspire.

Ideal Base for Exploration

Our base in Vélez de Benaudalla is nestled in a picturesque valley with immediate access to quiet, traffic-free routes. And with Granada just a short ride away, you can easily combine a high-adrenaline cycling adventure with visits to one of Spain’s most historic and culturally rich cities.

Authentic Andalusian Experience

Cycling here means immersing yourself in genuine local culture. From traditional Moorish villages in the Alpujarras and terraced vineyards to rustic roadside cafés and iconic landmarks like the Alhambra, every ride weaves together modern adventure with centuries-old tradition.

World-Class Training Ground

With its diverse terrain and favorable winter conditions, the Sierra Nevada is a preferred training ground for professional cyclists and elite teams. It’s a playground for recreational riders and a proving ground for top athletes alike.

What Our guests Are Saying:

“As beautiful as Mallorca is, it’s nothing compared to the Sierra Nevada’s. Mallorca may have 2 great routes with Sa Calobra & Cap Formentor. But, they don’t compare to the dozens of fantastic routes from the doorstep of your new shop."
— Remy Wetherup - Canada.

“The area has superb and predictable weather during winter. Great road surfaces, very little vehicle traffic and respectful drivers. Enjoy scenic roads through the mountains, along the coast. Breathtaking views and smile-inducing descents are on the itinerary as your experienced and knowledgeable guide brings you through thoughtfully curated routes.”
— Michael DeFelice - New York - USA

“Really supportive crew who will go the extra mile to look after you on the trip. The routes are breathtaking and the location itself is an overlooked gem amongst the more popular cycling destinations”
— Tony Lowry - Dublin - Ireland

“I’ve experienced Mallorca cycling routes, but nothing compares to the authentic charm and varied terrain of the Sierra Nevada and Granada. Every ride is a fresh surprise, and the local support is outstanding.”
— Oskar Kjærgård - Oslo - Norway

“Whether you’re into smooth roads or technical gravel sections, this is cycling at its best. The stunning scenery, rich culture, and thrilling rides make this region a must-visit destination in Andalusia.”
— Maria Doering - Germany

Ready to Ride granada?

Your dream cycling holiday in the Sierra Nevada and Granada is just a pedal stroke away! At Cycle Sierra Nevada, we offer a comprehensive suite of services designed to make your adventure seamless and unforgettable:

Cycling Holidays & Camps - Join our guided cycling holidays and training camps tailored to all levels—from beginners to seasoned racing cyclists.

Premium Bike Hire - Choose from our meticulously maintained fleet of top-of-the-line bikes, available in a range of sizes to perfectly match your riding style.

Cycling-Friendly Accommodation - Enjoy handpicked lodgings that blend comfort and convenience, ideally located near the region’s best cycling routes and Granada’s cultural landmarks.

Airport Transfers - Begin your adventure stress-free with our reliable airport transfer service, so you can focus on the ride from the moment you land.

We’d love to hear from you! Share your favorite routes, memorable experiences, or even ask questions in the comments—let’s build a community of passionate cyclists. And if you’re curious how our routes stack up against the famed Mallorca cycling routes, just ask!